Canon S100 vs ELPH 300

[JLoane]

With a Disney trip coming up and my son's graduation approaching, I'm in the market for a new point and shoot camera and debating between the Canon Powershot ELPH 300 and the S100.

I'd like to learn more and become a better photographer, but to be perfectly honest, for much of the time, I will use an auto setting or one of the scene modes. I'm wondering if the DIGIC 5 technology in the S100 will produce noticibly "better" photos--better color, crisper details, etc. I completely realize that the photographer's skill is the most important aspect of getting great photos, but given that my skill will be the same with either camera, I'm wondering if I can justify the price of the S100 or if the ELPH 300 would produce comparable photos.

 

[Porktitioner]

I think you will get a lot better image quality from the S100. This is not only because of the DIGIC 5 processor, but also from the fact that the S100sensor is larger than the ELPH sensor (and most other point and shoots.) Look at the S100 reviews on Adorama and B and H Photo along with the Powereshot S100 pages on Flickr. I have a Canon 7D, G1-X, and S100. Overall, the S100 gets the most use.


Hollywood Tower Hotel Lobby by Porktitioner, on Flickr


Main Street USA by Porktitioner, on Flickr


White Burst by Porktitioner, on Flickr

 

[nvtsallo]

I think you will get a lot better image quality from the S100. This is not only because of the DIGIC 5 processor, but also from the fact that the S100sensor is larger than the ELPH sensor (and most other point and shoots.) Look at the S100 reviews on Adorama and B and H Photo along with the Powereshot S100 pages on Flickr. I have a Canon 7D, G1-X, and S100. Overall, the S100 gets the most use.


Hollywood Tower Hotel Lobby by Porktitioner, on Flickr


Main Street USA by Porktitioner, on Flickr


White Burst by Porktitioner, on Flickr

I am considering going to disneyland with either a g1x or s100. If you had to choose one which would you pick?

 

[Porktitioner]

I am considering going to disneyland with either a g1x or s100. If you had to choose one which would you pick?

I would go with the S100. The main reason is size. You can put the S100 in your pocket. However, you would need a very large pocket for the G1-X. Even though they have the same processors, the S100 seems a little faster than the G1-X. Also, the S100 has good macro capabilities where the G1-X struggles in this department.

Don't get me wrong- I do like the G1-X. I just seem to use the S100 more.

 

[nvtsallo]

I would go with the S100. The main reason is size. You can put the S100 in your pocket. However, you would need a very large pocket for the G1-X. Even though they have the same processors, the S100 seems a little faster than the G1-X. Also, the S100 has good macro capabilities where the G1-X struggles in this department.

Don't get me wrong- I do like the G1-X. I just seem to use the S100 more.

I guess my question is if you were going into a park without your dslr would you rather the g1x and a small belt case for (IQ) or still the s100?

 

[Porktitioner]

I guess my question is if you were going into a park without your dslr would you rather the g1x and a small belt case for (IQ) or still the s100?

I carry both the G1-X and S100 to Disney when I go. I keep the S100 with me all the time for snapshots. However, I do set aside "picture time" specifically designated for photos and I use the G1-X or 7D. The G1-x does have significantly better IQ than the S100, but it is also quite a bit larger (though still compact.)

If I were forced to choose between the two, I would still go for the S100 as it will still give excellent IQ in a very small (pocket sized) package.

 

[sojodave]

I have the 300 HS and love it like it's my own son. The 1080p video through hdmi is stunning and the photos are spectacular. Plus, it's as big as a credit card and fires up very quickly. The 1080p video is the big difference between the two models.